A new generation of Australian T20 cricket will be unleashed on Thursday morning when Mitch Marsh leads his nation for the first time against South Africa in Durban.
The long-time WA captain will steer a side missing a host of household names and instead featuring three debutants - Spencer Johnson, Aaron Hardie and Matt Short - in the side’s first series since Aaron Finch’s retirement.
A relaxed Marsh acknowledged there’d be a degree more pressure on him leading a young Australian side as opposed to his state, but said he won’t let that stop enjoying the typically "fun cricket" against the Proteas.
"I don't think it's a whole new ball game, obviously with international cricket there's probably just a little bit more responsibility and perceived pressure at times, but the game doesn't change," he said.
"The game doesn't change and we've prepared really well, so I'm looking forward to the opportunity."
The three-T20, five-ODI South African tour is Australia’s next step of preparation ahead of October’s World Cup, taking the opportunity to rest some more seasoned players while exploring what other options are around.
Marsh was excited to see fast-bowler Johnson take flight but equally keen for Short to open the batting, the Adelaide Strikers talent having churned out 458 runs last BBL season.
That mark was only beaten by one player - Thursday’s other debutant in Perth’s Hardie.
Marsh said the trio had all worked hard for their call-ups and rejected any notion it showed they weren’t taking the series seriously.
"The first objective is always to win, representing our country and playing against South Africa always provides a great challenge and it's always fun cricket," he said.
"We've got three debutants and some guys that have played for Australia before but get another call up into this squad which is exciting.
"We've got some guys at home with injuries and some resting, that provides great opportunity for young guys and they've all earned the opportunity.
"We're really excited and hopefully they can get a taste of winning games of cricket for Australia."
